When does the Special Election Period for Dual/LIS Change in Status begin for DSNP members?

The Special Election Period (SEP) for Dual-eligible Special Needs Plan (DSNP) members who experience a change in their Low-Income Subsidy (LIS) status is designed to provide beneficiaries the flexibility to enroll in a different Medicare plan when their eligibility status changes. The correct choice states that this period begins upon either the notification of loss or the effective date of the loss, whichever occurs earlier.

This is crucial because it ensures that beneficiaries are able to react quickly and make necessary adjustments to their Medicare coverage without unnecessary gaps in health benefits. If a member is informed that they will lose their LIS status, they can take action immediately, rather than waiting for the effective date. Conversely, if they have already lost their status and are notified later, they still have the opportunity to change their plan, avoiding a situation where they find themselves without coverage.

This dual approach—acknowledging both the notification and effective date—provides a safety net for members, allowing greater responsiveness to changes in their eligibility status. It empowers beneficiaries to secure the most appropriate plan for their needs in a timely manner.